Calling All Latino Filmmakers!
Submit Your Script by April 21, 2023

Our second annual film contest is now open for entries! Submit your short film script by April 21, 2023. Our panel of judges will select three finalists who will be awarded $75,000 each to produce their short films under the tutelage of Latino industry experts and mentors. Whose short film will have a Hollywood ending this year? It could be yours! 

The Program

Spotlight Dorado was created to empower and amplify aspiring Latino voices across different industries, starting off with film. We’re not just here to open doors, but to champion the creativity, talent, and determination of Latino creators across the country.

How It Works

1

Who can participate:

The contest is open to all U.S.-based Latino writers, directors and producers,
including film school students, self-taught and independent filmmakers, and DACA recipients.

See the FAQ

2

Entering is Easy:

Pitch your screenplay and submit your materials using our entry form. 

Submit Your Script

3

The Process:

All submissions are judged by a panel of industry insiders and experts. Ten semifinalists will be contacted for interviews and thereafter 3 finalists will be selected. Each finalist will be given a budget to produce their short film. Three films will be submitted to a popular vote to determine the winner. 

See the Rules

A screenshot of three filmmakers watching the surprise reveal that they were selected as finalists for the Spotlight Dorado 2022 film contest.

Spotlight on 2022

The inaugural year of Spotlight Dorado was a blockbuster success, with hundreds of talented Latino storytellers around the country submitting their short film scripts to the contest. Go behind the spotlight with last year’s finalists!

Meet the Mentors

Spotlight Dorado finalists will receive guidance and mentorship from some of the most recognized Latinos in the film industry as they bring their vision to life.

Anthony Ramos

Actor/Recording Artist

Gloria Calderón Kellet

Producer/Director/Actress

Al Madrigal

Actor/Writer/Producer

Danay Garcia

Actress

Headshot of Carlos Lopez Estrada

Carlos López Estrada

Director

nancy

Nancy Mejía

Writer/Director